Exploring Austin on a Budget

Austin is a thriving city known for their thriving indie music scene and barbeque joints. There is plenty to do and at a reasonable price! Here are our top 10 things to do under $10.00 (many of them even free!).

1. Stroll Around 6th Street

Arguably one of Austin’s most famous destination, especially for the 25 and under crowd, is the bar lined 6th Street. It is a hustling road lined with bars, pubs, clubs and galleries. Every weekend the street is blocked off for a multi-block party where the public is allowed to meander from bar to bar without traffic.

Fee: Free

2. Texas State Capitol

The Austin Capital is the oldest surviving state office building. A tour inside is a great place to enjoy impressive architecture and learn about Texas history and culture.

Fee: Free

3. Congress Avenue Bridge Bats

Each night at sunset, the brave should stop by the Congress Avenue Bridge to catch a rare sight. The bridge is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America, and at dusk you will catch the 1.5 million creatures fly out of their sleeping den to awake for their “morning” meal. It is truly a sight to see!

Fee: Free

4. Austin Zoo

With more than 300 animals on exhibit, the Austin Zoo is a great way to learn about wildlife and enjoy the sunny Austin weather. The Zoo has exotic animals from wild cats to reptiles to amphibians.

6. LBJ Library & Museum

Dedicated to former first lady, Lady Bird Johnson, the LBJ Museum is a great way to explore the federal history of Texas and our country. It is an enriching tour through American history. One of the highlights is the replica of the oval office (7/8 to scale) and the Presidential Limousine.

Admission: Free (donation only)

7. Trash to Treasure Donation Drive

An annual recycling program put on by the UT Campus Environmental Center is a large event that encourages the public about the benefits of recycling. Attendees are encouraged to bring their old or junk belongings they no longer have use for and the drive donates or recycles the goods.

Though they do no accept larger items such as appliances and cars, trucks or vans, it is a great resource to find out more information and programs that do accept car donations and appliance donations.

Admission: Free

8. Zilker Park

Sitting on over 351 acres, this expansive park offers a variety of outdoor activities such as kayaking, biking, hiking, and picnic space. This is also a great area to find local events going on in the area. It is well known for being the site to hose annual festivals such as ACL, SWSW, Reggae fest, and several more.

Admission to park: Free

9. The Salt Lick

One of Austin’s most well known and hailed barbeque joints, it is definitely a spot not to be missed in any jaunt around Austin. We recommend the melt-in-your-mouth brisket, but everything on the menu is a must-have!

Fee: Brisket Sandwich $9.95

10. Barton Springs Pool

On one of Austin’s notorious sizzling summer days, visit the public pool at Barton Springs to cool off. Set to a refreshing 68-degrees year round, it is a great and cheap way to relax.

Admission: $1 to $3

Do you see some must-see or do Austin attractions left off the list? Please leave a comment or a message on our Facebook page. We always love hearing your suggestions!

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